Three New England destinations where moms can find adventure, relaxation, and a little luxury
You need a haircut! No worries, the folks at the Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa will take care of it, as part of their working fiber farm.
Pamela Wright
Llama, llama loves your momma
If your mom enjoys a round of golf, we bet she'd love this new adventure: the Llama Tee Time Trek at the
Get Starting Point
A guide through the most important stories of the morning, delivered Monday through Friday.
Enter Email
Sign Up
The sprawling, historic resort is well known for its working fiber farm, with a herd of llamas, sheep, alpacas, rabbits, goats — and chickens and ducks, too. Even if mom isn't into golf, she can visit the farm (meet the farmer tours are offered daily from 9-9:30 a.m.) or take a llama or goat for a guided trail walk, ending with a picnic breakfast.
Advertisement
The Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa in Whitefield, N.H., has stunning White Mountain views.
Pamela Wright
Set on 1,700 acres, with stunning views of the White Mountains, the resort, dating back more than 150 years, has a storied past and a who's who guest book, including Theodore Roosevelt, Grover Cleveland, Warren G. Harding, Calvin Coolidge, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Dwight D. Eisenhower, and Richard Nixon. Writers Robert Frost, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Stephen King have also visited. To learn more about the hotel's history, guests can take a guided historical tour of the resort.
If your mom likes to stay busy, she'll be in nirvana here. There are indoor and outdoor pools, pickleball, tennis, mountain biking, hiking, ax throwing, disc golf, ATV tours, themed dinners, mixology and cooking classes using organic ingredients from the resort's gardens, art classes, and a variety of fitness and wellness classes, like yoga, aquatics, and meditation.
Or she could simply relax, spending time at the Tower Spa, enjoying treatments with titles like Purifying Earth Wrap, Mountain Meadow Scrub, Collagen Boosting Facial, and CBD Serenity Massage. In the evening, head to the cozy 1865 Wine Cellar, with a
The Farnsworth Museum of Art is known for its collection of Wyeth family works, including this work by Andrew Wyeth.
Pamela Wright
A day at the beach
There's something therapeutic and calming about being near the ocean, the salty scent of the air, the sea breeze, and the rhythmic sound of the waves. It's a salve for everyday stress and an antidote for breaking out of the drab quotidian. Throw in cultural pursuits, good eats, spa treatments, and luxurious digs, and you'll quickly rise to the top of mom's favorite kid list. We're talking about sending mom to Rockland, a buzzy town hugging the shores of Penobscot Bay in midcoast Maine.
Advertisement
Start by booking a room at the
Of course, mom will start with a visit to The Opal Spa at the Samoset, a cozy, relaxing oasis, offering a variety of top-notch treatments, including top-of-the-line facials, body treatments, and massages. Top choices include the mineral-rich body exfoliation, the detoxifying body wrap, the aromatherapy or CBD massage, and thesignature hydra-facial.
All loosey-goosey, mom can head down to the Enoteca Wine Bar for a beverage and snack, perhaps the balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts or the Sicilian grilled octopus, followed by dinner at La Bella Vita, with crispy Sicilian brick oven pizzas, traditional Italian dishes, and house specialties like the Ocean Stew, packed with mussels, shrimp, clams, lobster, and octopus. Fling open the balcony doors and drift to sleep to the sound of the surf.
The Farnsworth Museum of Art has a collection of some 15,000 works of American artists from the 18th century to present, and hosts a variety of exhibits.
Pamela Wright
Mom might be perfectly happy staying on the property, grabbing a seat on the lawn overlooking the ocean, swimming and lounging at the pool; there's also an 18-hole oceanside golf course. Or drive into Rockland to visit
known for its collection of Wyeth family works. The museum, with a collection of some 15,000 works of American artists from the 18th century to present, also hosts a variety of special exhibits. Also in Rockland is the
Advertisement
For more scenic views, walk the Rockland Harbor Trail, a 5-mile walking path along the waterfront, or the oceanside trails at Beech Hill Preserve.
Treat mom to breakfast at the Garrison Inn in Newburyport; it's included in the room rate.
Garrison Inn
Let's have a sleepover — in Newburyport
This small city on the south bank of the Merrimack River on Massachusetts' North Shore is popular with day-trippers, who come to stroll its picturesque streets and explore the compact riverside downtown, with renovated 1800s brick buildings now housing restaurants and one-of-a-kind shops.
But why rush home? Instead, book your mom a room at the four-story brick
Advertisement
The tea room at the Garrison Inn is all pretty in pink. Mom can enjoy an evening tea as part of her stay here.
Garrison Inn
Newburyport has a vibrant art scene. Check out the Newburyport Art Association. Also, pop into
For some fresh air and great views, head to the
on Plum Island, with a network of paths that wind through maritime forests and salt marshes, and
Diane Bair and Pamela Wright can be reached at
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Miami Herald
3 days ago
- Miami Herald
Florida summers are hot — but these unexpected adventures are seriously cool
'What did you do this summer?' If you don't want to respond with the typical beach days and theme parks answer (though we're not knocking those), break out of the ordinary with some epic Florida adventures. Watch a sea turtle take its first steps to the water. Snorkel a new artificial reef where mermaids stand guard. Zoom off on a celestial boat ride with an astronomer. Or simply cool off in a Florida spring, or drink pink in an adorable hotel cabana. Drink Pink In A Chic Cabana, Downtown Miami If summer vacation conjures up memories of long days by a fancy resort pool accompanied by refreshing drinks, you don't have to sneak into a hotel pool: The InterContinental Miami is opening up its newly transformed rooftop pool deck to non-hotel guests with its Rosé All Day Cabana Experience. Through Labor Day, up to six guests can reserve the Oceanview Plus cabana, which evokes South of France vibes with happy pink cabana stripes. The package comes with pampering amenities like chilled towels and personalized service, and guests can sip from coconuts and share a bottle of rosé prosecco. Hang in the pool, kick back in an oversized lounger, and soak up the rooftop's bay and ocean views. Price starts at $400. Set Your Sights On The Stars, Vero Beach Catering to 2025's hot 'noctourism' travel trend (exploring the world after dark), the Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel + Spa is offering an otherworldly summer experience. The resort is partnering with the boat rental company Paddles By The Sea for a 'Stargazing On The Sea' boat tour, which is free and open to hotel guests. The celestial journey on a riverboat begins close to sunset — where you'll first watch for dolphins and catch the glow show. Once it's dark, train your eyes on the sky as a knowledgeable local astronomer takes out a telescope and points out stars and planets. The program is free for guests, but reservations must be booked 48 hours in advance on a first-come, first-served basis. Witness A Turtle Release On The Beach, Juno Beach Tourists aren't the only ones flocking to Florida this summer — sea turtles are returning to Florida beaches, with nesting season running from May to September. At Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach, there are several ways to experience this natural phenomenon after dark. Book a Turtle Walk to learn about the egg-laying process, and under cover of night, hopefully witness a nesting sea turtle on the beach. The 3-hour program is available Tuesday-Saturday in June and July from 9 p.m. to midnight; ages 10 and older; $40 per person. There's also the incredible chance to witness a hatchling release, where you'll watch baby turtles make their tough journey to the ocean (using night-vision technology for the most authentic experience). Available Monday-Sunday in August from 8 to 10 p.m.; ages 10 and up; $40 per person. You will need to register for the experiences at Snorkel A New Reef, Hollywood Beach Florida's major flex is its rich marine life that's teeming underwater. For those who love to snorkel and search for underwater beauty, there's a new artificial reef off Hollywood Beach. The nonprofit Ocean Rescue Alliance International and the city of Hollywood created Guardians of the Reef and recently sunk sculptural reef modules in about 10 feet of water, which makes it easily accessible for divers and snorkelers. It's part of the 1000 Mermaids Artificial Reef project, and you can expect to see artsy photo-worthy statues of mermaids, mermen, a dive suit, and marine animals like octopi and rays. Play Out Your Theatrical Dreams, Fort Lauderdale School may be out for summer, but adults can attend theater school at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts in Fort Lauderdale. If you've ever dreamed of being a stage star or want to get rid of stage fright, this is your chance to tap into your creative side or refine your talents. Adult classes range from acting to Broadway dance, singing and improv, where you'll work with theater pros. These classes begin in June, and are very popular, selling out fast. Cool Off In A Movie-Worthy Florida Spring, Tallahassee Swimming in a cool Florida spring is almost a rite of passage for locals and tourists during the sweltering summer. For outdoor adventures with an Old Florida feel, head to Wakulla Springs near Tallahassee, one of the world's largest and deepest freshwater springs that stays at a refreshing 70 degrees. Rimmed by ancient cypress swamps, Wakulla Springs has bragging rights to a cinematic past. You may recognize it as the backdrop for Hollywood classics including 'Creature from the Black Lagoon' and 'Tarzan's Secret Treasure.' You can jump off a diving platform and swim in the spring or take a guided riverboat tour where you'll hunt for wildlife like manatees (mostly in winter season), alligators and birds. Nostalgia-Inspired Summer Camp, Clearwater Beach Dreaming about the simplicity of the good old days, from fireside chats to bunk beds? This summer, hotels are leaning into the nostalgia travel trend with special packages and experiences that spark happiness and connection. The Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach launched a summer camp-inspired package, 'Sunshine, Sips and S'mores,' which includes welcome amenities like a custom old-school Camp Snap camera (encouraging guests to put down their cellphones) s'mores-flavored popcorn, and summer camp-inspired activities. While kids will love the deluxe king bunk room, there are a variety of spacious accommodations for families. Seek out the hotel's 'Hidden Beach' pop-up on Fridays and Saturdays from 8-10 p.m. to bond over making gooey s'mores at the fire pits, hit the ice cream pop-up with Ben & Jerry's on the pool deck every Saturday from noon-5 p.m., or plan your visit around the hotel's summer concert series featuring local artists on June 14, July 12, and Aug. 9.
Vogue
4 days ago
- Vogue
Aman Spa at the Amangiri
Welcome to the second iteration of Vogue's global spa guide, an index of the 100 best spas in the world, built from the expertise of our global editors and trusted contributors. There is a lot to choose from in the world of wellness, and no matter how far you're planning to travel—from a subway ride to a trans-Atlantic flight—we want to make sure it's worth the journey. Whatever your path, let us be your guide. Why go here? The Amangiri is one of—if not, arguably, the—best hotels in the United States. (It's been awarded three Michelin keys.) The minimalist architecture, the otherworldly desert landscape, the luxurious amenities and service…. It all adds up to a once-in-a-lifetime stay. There's a reason that Hailey and Justin Bieber, the Kardashians, as well as Beyoncé and Jay-Z have all been guests of the Amangiri: It's spectacular. So yes, go for the spa. But also just go for the experience. What's the vibe? Hidden in the remote south Utah desert, the Aman Spa at the Amangiri, a 25,000-square-foot wellness center, looks out onto a sprawling, Mars-like expanse of sand and red rocks. And the architecture is almost as impressive as the landscape: Housed in a series of concrete structures, it looks less like a spa and more like the futuristic secret lair of a James Bond villain. Photo: Robert Rieger / Courtesy of Aman The history? Aman spas are the signature wellness facility of the Aman hotels, the ultra-luxury hospitality brand known for its minimalist design style, over-the-top service, and extremely high rates. (So dedicated is its clientele that they call themselves 'Aman Junkies.') While there's a number of Amans throughout the world—including in Thailand, Japan, Greece, and New York—the Amangiri is one of their most famous, due to its distinctive Brutalist architecture and barren yet beautiful landscape that stretches over 900 acres of southern Utah's Colorado Plateau. Photo: Robert Rieger / Courtesy of Aman What should you try? The most notable Aman Spa offerings are inspired by the high desert they reside in. The Utah Salt and Clay Treatment, for example, embraces exactly that—locally harvested sea salt and bentonite desert clay, as well as either turquoise sage mountain arnica or prickly pear pomegranate lotions. Although there's plenty that also embrace cutting-edge wellness technology (some massages embrace cyrotherapy rollers) as well as globally influenced techniques—like the Shirodhara treatment, an ancient Ayurvedic treatment where warm oil is poured onto one's forehead and then massaged into their scalp. That's just if you want to stay within the concrete walls. The best wellness experiences involve the great outdoors. Like their tower Butte Yoga, where a helicopter will fly you to a canyon plateau for a private yoga session 1,000 feet above the cerulean waters of Lake Powell. (When I visited, choppers could often be heard overhead.) Meanwhile, on-staff wellness gurus will lead you through 'journeys,' such as their Wild Wellness program, where you'll do a personal training session in the middle of the desert followed by a rhythmic massage. You can also choose your own adventure—literally. The Amangiri has over 12 miles of hiking trails, and you will be given a trail map upon check-in. I took myself on a self-guided hike through the desert and looming rock formations until I reached a slot canyon that was like something from a sci-fi film. My hike was followed by a massage and then a visit to the Water Pavilion, which features a cold plunge pool, sauna, and steam room for my own thermal therapy circuit. Photo: Robert Rieger / Courtesy of Aman What else do we need to know? The Aman has their own skin-care line, Aman Essentials, that they use during many of their treatments. Although ingredients can vary, the formulas include amethyst, jade, frankincense, and palo santo, as well as alkalizing, oxygen-rich spring water, wild-harvested Amazon butters, and rainforest muds. If you want to take the Aman lifestyle even further, Aman Cabana—the brand's retail concept—offers a range of clothes, luggage, and even board games. It's all a long way from the traditional terry cloth robes of yesteryear. Photo: Robert Rieger / Courtesy of Aman Who can go? The Aman Spa is only open to guests of the Amangiri. Photo: Robert Rieger / Courtesy of Aman Booking details for Aman Spa Address: 1 Kayenta Rd, Canyon Point, UT 84741 Read more from Vogue's Global Spa Guide.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Yahoo
Finalists revealed for 2025 Cumbria Tourism Awards
Trailblazing tourism businesses from across the county will step into the spotlight next month (Tuesday, July 8) for the Cumbria Tourism Awards 2025. The prestigious awards shine a light on operators who go above and beyond to deliver world-class visitor experiences, with the winners crowned during a VIP celebration evening at Kendal's Castle Green Hotel hosted by author and mountaineer Nigel Vardy. The 2025 finalists are: Dock Museum, Barrow finalist (Image: Supplied) The Dock Museum, Barrow-in-Furness Bendrigg, Kendal Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway Lindeth Fell Country House, Bowness-on-Windermere Sunnyside Guest House, Keswick Wheatlands Lodge - Windermere Solway Holiday Park, Silloth Park Cliffe, Windermere The Quiet Site, Ullswater Ullswater Heights Holiday Home and Lodge Park, Penrith Double award nominee, Pures Lakes Skincare's new BEATRIX range (Image: Supplied) Shed One Distillery, Ulverston - Make Your Own Distilled Spirit Cliffhanger Escape Rooms, Backbarrow - Bank Diamond Heist Pure Lakes Skincare, Far Sawrey - Soap Making Masterclass Honister Slate Mine - Guided Mine Tours Castlerigg Hall Caravan Camping Glamping, Keswick The Cottage in the Wood, Whinlatter Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire The Swan Hotel & Spa, Newby Bridge Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa, Windermere Another Place, The Lake, Ullswater Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway, the only business to be nominated in three categories (Image: Supplied) Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway Muncaster Castle, Gardens and Hawk & Owl Centre Honister Slate Mine Queens Head Troutbeck The Brackenrigg Inn, Ullswater The Royal at Dockray Pennington's Tea and Coffee Ltd, Kendal CoolCrafting, Kendal Pure Lakes Skincare, Far Sawrey Nigel Vardy, host of the Cumbria Tourism Awards 2025 (Image: Supplied) Grange Bridge Cottage, Borrowdale E-Bike Safaris Ltd, Kendal Langdale Chase, Windermere Farlam Hall Hotel & Restaurant, Carlisle Willowbeck Lodge, Carlisle Dufton Barn Holidays, Appleby-in-Westmorland Fair Rigg by Cradel Haus, Windermere Netherby Hall, Carlisle The Ruskin Museum, Coniston Mirehouse and Gardens, Keswick Quaker Tapestry Museum, Kendal SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel, Windermere Storrs Hall Hotel, Bowness-on-Windermere Pentonbridge Inn, Carlisle The Cottage In The Wood, Whinlatter The Cumbria Tourism Awards 2025 will be held next month (Image: Supplied) Sunset Café Silecroft Beach Bassenthwaite Lake Station Force Walkers Café & Terrace, Ambleside Peter Hill, Cumbrian Heavy Horses, Nr Millom Claire Winter-Moore, Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway Margaret Craig, Embleton Spa Hotel Judith Talbot, The Melbreak Hotel Askham Hall and Bank Barn, Nr Penrith Hidden River Barn, Longtown Storrs Hall Hotel, Bowness-on-Windermere Eden Barn Ltd, Kirkby Stephen
